The Car Connection Expert Review

Volkswagen’s mid-size sedan received a complete
makeover for the 2006 model year; changes for 2007 include the introduction of a
wagon version and the availability of Adaptive Cruise Control, a system that
automatically adjusts vehicle speed to compensate for changing traffic flow. The
’07 Passat has 2.4 inches more rear-seat legroom than the previous generation
Passat as well as an available 280-horsepower 3.2-liter V-6 and optional 4Motion
all-wheel drive. The standard Passat engine is a 2.0-liter, turbocharged
four-cylinder developing 200 horsepower. It can be teamed with either a
six-speed manual transmission or six-speed automatic with Tiptronic manual-shift
capability. The V-6 comes only with the six-speed automatic but is about a
second faster to 60 mph than the four-cylinder/manual transmission version of
the Passat, which gets there in about 7.6 seconds. High-tech features abound on
the Passat, including electro-assisted power steering, adaptive high-intensity
xenon lighting, and active head restraints to limit the potential for whiplash
injury. Available equipment includes a premium Dynaudio sound system sourced
from the Danish audiophile company of the same name, custom designed for the
Passat. Front side and full-length head/curtain airbags are standard; side
airbags for back seat passengers are optional. The Passat is a great choice in
the entry-luxury/sport segment, especially when ordered with the optional
3.2-liter V-6 engine.